Notice of intent to rescind contractual terms and clauses inconsistent with EO 14168, Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government in existing agreements

The Department of Homeland Security is issuing a formal notice of intent to rescind and forbear enforcement of contractual clauses, provisions, and obligations related to "gender ideology" that conflict with Executive Order 14168, titled Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. This action aligns with directives from the Executive Order signed on January 20, 2025, and related guidance issued by the Office of Personnel Management on January 29, 2025. The Department will remove or suspend enforcement of contract clauses, such as those found in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) parts 52.222-21, 52.222-26, and 52.222-27, that include gender identity definitions or gender-related requirements that are inconsistent with the EO, except where mandated by law. This special notice is not a solicitation but serves to inform contractors and the public of the Department’s intent to revise existing agreements to comply with the EO. The changes will impact any contractual terms involving gender-related reporting, record-keeping, or obligations imposed at the firm-wide level that do not align with the EO’s restoration of biological definitions and protections explicitly defending women. The primary place of performance for this action is Washington, DC, and it reflects the Department’s immediate prioritization of the new administration’s policy agenda on gender-related matters within federal contracts.